Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the Bright Futures Scholarship Program?

The Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program is a state-funded scholarship that helps eligible Florida students pay for college at approved Florida postsecondary institutions. Eligibility is based on academic achievement, coursework, service/work hours, and qualifying test scores.

2. What are the different Bright Futures award levels?

The two most common award levels are:

• Florida Academic Scholars (FAS) – the highest award level

• Florida Medallion Scholars (FMS) – a partial tuition award

Award amounts and coverage vary by year and by institution.

3. How does the school determine Bright Futures eligibility?

The high school reports:

• Coursework and GPA

• Community service and/or paid work hours

• Graduation status

Test scores (SAT, ACT, or CLT) are reported directly by the testing agencies to the Florida Department of Education. Eligibility is finalized by the state, not the high school.

4. Which test scores can be used for Bright Futures?

Bright Futures accepts qualifying scores from:

• SAT

• ACT

• Classic Learning Test (CLT)

Official scores must be received by the Florida Department of Education no later than August 31 following the student’s graduation.

5. Can my student still qualify after graduation?

Yes. Students may continue to work toward eligibility through August 31 after graduation by:

• Submitting improved SAT, ACT, or CLT scores

• Completing missing service or work hours (if applicable and allowable)

• Ensuring all required information has been properly reported

After August 31, no new eligibility can be earned.

6. Does Bright Futures work at any college?

No. Bright Futures may only be used at eligible Florida public or private postsecondary institutions. It cannot be used for:

• Out-of-state colleges

• Most out-of-country programs

A full list of eligible institutions is available on the Bright Futures website.

7. How does the scholarship get applied to the student’s bill?

Bright Futures is applied through the college or university’s financial aid office, not the high school. Once the student enrolls:

• The institution confirms eligibility with the state

• The award is applied to the student’s account, typically after drop/add

Students should contact their college’s financial aid office directly with billing or disbursement questions.

8. Do students need to “accept” Bright Futures?

There is no separate acceptance process through the high school. However, students should:

• Complete the Florida Financial Aid Application (FFAA)

• Ensure their chosen college is aware of their Bright Futures eligibility

9. Why does my student’s Bright Futures status look different online than what the school shared?

Bright Futures status may change as:

• Test scores are received

• Final transcripts are processed

• Service/work hours are updated

Families should regularly check the official Bright Futures student portal for the most up-to-date information.

10. Where can families check official Bright Futures information?

All official eligibility information, student records, and program details are available through the Florida Department of Education:

Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program

https://www.floridastudentfinancialaidsg.org

11. Who should we contact with questions?

• Questions about coursework, GPA, or service/work hours:
  Contact the Office of College & Career at FBA

• Questions about award amounts, billing, or college application:
  Contact the college or university’s financial aid office

• Questions about eligibility requirements:
  Refer to the Bright Futures website listed above